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Tag: Akeredolu

  • Akeredolu’s commissioner, Professor Bayonle Ademodi is dead

    Akeredolu’s commissioner, Professor Bayonle Ademodi is dead

    The Ondo State Government led by Governor Rotimi Akeredolu on Saturday lost a member of its cabinet to the cold hands of death.

    The Commissioner for Regional Integration, Professor Bayonle Ademodi died on Saturday after battling a protracted disease.

    According to reports, Professor Ademodi, a renowned chemical engineer, had been sick for the past six months.

    Although the nature of his sickness remained unknown, he recently travelled abroad for medical attention and was away from the state for over two months.

    His death was confirmed by the Information and Orientation Commissioner, Donald Ojogo, who described it as sad. Also, the former caretaker chairman of Ondo East Local Government, Wale Akinlosotu, who confirmed the loss of the party chieftain, described Ademodi as a great leader and bridge-builder that was loved by young and old.

    He said Ademodi’s death was “a great loss to the All Progressives Congress, APC, family in Ondo State.

  • BREAKING: Amotekun, hunters rescue abducted wife of Akeredolu’s Chief of Staff

    BREAKING: Amotekun, hunters rescue abducted wife of Akeredolu’s Chief of Staff

    Barely two days after her abduction, the wife of the Chief of Staff to the Ondo State governor, Olugbenga Ale, has regained her freedom.

    Recall TheNEwsGuru (TNG) had earlier reported that Mrs Ale, alongside one other person, were kidnapped on Thursday evening along the Ondo-Akure Expressway while travelling from Lagos to Akure.

    It was, however, gathered that the victims were rescued on Saturday morning by men of the Ondo State Security Network also known as Amotekun Corps in collaboration with local hunters and vigilante in the area.

    The Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, who confirmed the release of Mrs Ale to newsmenH, said it was too early to disclose details of the rescue operation.

    He said, “We thank God for the achievement, it was not easy. But we are are able to arrest some persons in connection with the matter.”

  • Akeredolu sacks Ondo attorney-general

    Akeredolu sacks Ondo attorney-general

    The Ondo State governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has sacked his Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Kola Olawoye.

    Akeredolu who didn’t state reasons for the removal of Olawoye, immediately appointed a human rights lawyer, Mr. Charles Titiloye, as the new Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

    Akeredolu’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Segun Ajiboye in a statement on Monday said Titiloye’s name would soon be forwarded to the state House of Assembly for confirmation.

    The governor expressed his appreciation to the sacked commissioner for services rendered to the state, while wishing him success in his future endeavours.

  • Akeredolu tackles #EndSARS promoters: “Justify why the money was there”

    Akeredolu tackles #EndSARS promoters: “Justify why the money was there”

    The Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), said there shouldn’t be unnecessary debate over the frozen accounts of #EndSARS promoters by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

    The apex bank obtained a court order to freeze the account of 20 #EndSARS campaigners after linking the funds in their account to suspected terrorism financing.

    However, Akeredolu, who spoke Wednesday on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily Programme, stated that this is not the first time bank accounts were frozen by the CBN.

    He said those whose bank accounts were frozen should approach a competent court to justify the “legitimate” source and use of funds in the frozen accounts.

    Akeredolu, who is also the Ondo State Governor, noted that the matter was discussed last Sunday at the meeting of governors, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders in the region held in Lagos in the aftermath of the violence that trailed the #EndSARS protests.

    The governor said the leaders agreed at the meeting to take certain steps on the frozen accounts but decided not to announce their decisions to the media.

    He said, “The issue of the accounts that were frozen was discussed but nobody said in the communique that we appreciated the government for freezing the accounts.

    “We know that there are ways to get a few things done without putting it in the public glare and start contestation on the pages of newspapers. So, we know what we decided and we know what we want to do about that.

    “The issue, when it was raised, generated debate. But it was so clear that some people were getting to fund this for reasons other than #EndSARS. So, if we know money moved from some accounts that were suspicious, do you say the government should keep quiet? It is something we are looking into.”

    Akeredolu also reacted to the youth representatives who pulled out of the Lagos State Panel of Judiciary Inquiry probing cases of police brutality and the Lekki shootings.

    The governor urged them to resume sitting while they challenge the CBN action in court.

    He said, “If I were counsel to those people, I will not advise them not to appear at that panel.

    “Accounts are frozen, is that the first time it is done? If your account was frozen, you justify why the money was there. You explain what use you have used the money. If it is, okay, we paid this caterer to give food to these boys when they were there. We spent money before the hoodlums took over, it will be explained, people will know and the accounts will be de-frozen.

    “If for instance, my account was frozen, all I will do is to go to court and explain. Politicians’ accounts have been frozen and all they do is to go to court to explain and the court will say, leave the accounts and the accounts will be de-frozen and they get their money.”

  • #EndSARS promoters should explain use of funds- Akeredolu

    #EndSARS promoters should explain use of funds- Akeredolu

    Rotimi Akeredolu(SAN), Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum has said #EndSARS promoters whose bank accounts were frozen recently by the Central Bank of Nigeria should approach a competent court to defend the “legitimate” source and use of funds in the frozen accounts.

    Akeredolu, who is also the Ondo State Governor, stated that it was not the first time bank accounts were frozen by the CBN.

    He revealed that the matter was discussed last Sunday at the meeting of governors, traditional rulers and other stakeholders in the region held in Lagos in the outcome of the violence that trailed the #EndSARS protests.

    Akeredolu, who spoke Wednesday on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily Programme, said the leaders decided at the meeting to take certain steps on the frozen accounts.

    He stated, “The issue of the accounts that were frozen was discussed but nobody said in the communique that we appreciated the government for freezing the accounts.

    “We know that there are ways to get a few things done without putting it in the public glare and start contestation on the pages of newspapers. So, we know what we decided and we know what we want to do about that.

    “The issue, when it was raised, generated debate. But it was so clear that some people were getting to fund this for reasons other than #EndSARS. So, if we know money moved from some accounts that were suspicious, do you say the government should keep quiet? It is something we are looking into.”

    Akeredolu also urged the youth representatives in the Lagos State Panel of Judiciary Inquiry probing cases of police brutality and the Lekki shootings to continue sitting while they challenge the CBN action in court.

    He said, “If I were counsel to those people, I will not advise them not to appear at that panel.

    “Accounts are frozen, is that the first time it is done? If your account was frozen, you justify why the money was there. You explain what use you have used the money. If it is, okay, we paid this caterer to give food to these boys when they were there. We spent money before the hoodlums took over, it will be explained, people will know and the accounts will be de-frozen.

    “If for instance, my account was frozen, all I will do is to go to court and explain. Politicians’ accounts have been frozen and all they do is to go to court to explain and the court will say, leave the accounts and the accounts will be de-frozen and they get their money.”

     

  • #EndSARS: Akeredolu gives 7- day ultimatum to hoodlums to surrender arms

    #EndSARS: Akeredolu gives 7- day ultimatum to hoodlums to surrender arms

    Ondo State governor, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu has given seven days ultimatum to all hoodlums who took advantage of the EndSARS protest to perpetrate trouble in the state to surrender all arms or ammunition in their custody to the government or face the wrath of the law.

    The seven days period of grace, according to the governor commences yesterday. Governor Akeredolu specifically directed that all such arms and ammunition should be returned to the Commandant of the South West Security Network, otherwise known as Operation Amotekun at the Reuben Fasoranti Gardens, Alagbaka, Akure.

    According to him, “all those in the category of illegal arms and ammunition bearers are to take advantage of this window of grace to turn in these deadly weapons as security agencies shall take necessary steps against defiance after the seven days period.”

    In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Donald Ojogo, the governor disclosed that, “those who find it difficult to physically present such arms and ammunition for obvious reasons are advised to call 08079999989 for further advice and instructions on appropriate steps to be taken.”

    Meanwhile, Governor Akeredolu has expressed concern over what he described, as low level of policing in Ondo State.

    He said: “The general observation across the state shows a very low level of policing, which is risky to society. Of note, policing is key and can only thrive on a note of mutual trust and respect. We can all, only strive for a better society and brace up to take maximum advantage of lessons learnt from the unfortunate incidents of the last two weeks.

    “Saddening as the events appear, there is no doubt that a fresh orientation, perception of self-appraisal as well as an encouraging mood of sober reflection pervades the nation.” Governor Akeredolu, therefore, advised the police authorities to take up their responsibilities as an institution and take charge of the public space for the good of all.

  • Ondo poll: Jegede challenges Akeredolu’s victory, heads to Tribunal

    Ondo poll: Jegede challenges Akeredolu’s victory, heads to Tribunal

    Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the October 10 governorship election in Ondo State, Eyitayo Jegede, has filed petition at the tribunal challenging the victory of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

    Governor Akeredolu won in 15 out of the 18 local government areas to lead Jegede with a wide margin at the polls.

    Other defendants in the petition are; the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) the All Progressives Congress and the Deputy Govenor- elect, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    Among the grounds on which the election is being challenged include; that it was marred by irregularities and pockets of violence and intimidation.

    Jegede also faulted the emergence of Akeredolu during Party’s primaries.

    He is also asking the tribunal to declare him winner of the election.

  • Why I won’t resign as Akeredolu’s deputy – Agboola Ajayi

    Why I won’t resign as Akeredolu’s deputy – Agboola Ajayi

    Mr. Agboola Ajayi has ruled out the option of resigning from his position as deputy governor of Ondo State despite pressure from his boss Rotimi Akeredolu.

    Ajayi, who was candidate of Zenith Labour Party in the October 10, 2020 governorship election in Ondo State, said he remains the deputy governor till 23rd February 2021 because Ondo people who voted him in 2016 have not requested for his resignation.

    He made his position clear on the issue on Tuesday through a statement by his media aide, Allen Sowore.

    The statement reads, “The deputy governor was elected together with Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN) by the good people of Ondo State in 2016. That four years mandate given to both men will not end until 23rd February 2021.

    “The news of his impending resignation is being sponsored by the governor through the propaganda machinery and machinations of Ondo State Ministry of Information as a subterfuge in preparation for a macabre plan to put the deputy governor’s forged signature on a prepared resignation letter.

    “The general public should be wary of these latest antics and desperation of the governor to remove his deputy by all means and at any cost illegally.

    “The people of Ondo State, who voted for Agboola Ajayi as deputy governor in 2016 have not asked him to resign or quit the government.

    “Therefore, he has no reason whatsoever to relinquish the people’s mandate, which of course is limited by term/time, democratically bestowed upon him.”

  • Ilaje Development Summit Group congratulates Akeredolu, deputy-elect on election victory

    Ilaje Development Summit Group congratulates Akeredolu, deputy-elect on election victory

    The Ilaje Development Summit Group has congratulated Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and his Deputy-elect Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on their successful outing in the Ondo governorship election held on Saturday, October 10 in the state.

    The group in a statement by its Executive Administrator, Rev. Sola Adebawo said the victory at the poll was a reaffirmation of the peoples’ trust in Akeredolu and a reflection of the sound judgement in the selection of a distinguished Ilaje son as running mate.

    Read full statement below:

    ILAJE DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT GROUP CONGRATULATES GOVERNOR OLUWAROTIMI AKEREDOLU AND HON. LUCKY AIYEDATIWA ON THEIR SUCCESS IN THE OCTOBER 10, 2020 ELECTION IN ONDO STATE

    • Calls for urgent focus on development of Ilaje land by government

    The Ilaje Development Summit Group (IDSG) wishes to congratulate the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (Aketi) and his Deputy-elect, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on their outstanding success at the October 10, 2020 governorship election in Ondo State.

    This represents a clear statement of trust by the people of Ondo State and a reflection of the sound judgment in the selection of Lucky Aiyedatiwa (a distinguished Ilaje son) as running mate. From the results of the election, Ilaje Local Government produced the second highest number of votes after Owo (the Governor’s home LG) to procure victory for the Governor and his Deputy-elect. This is a strong indication of the unanimous support of Ilaje people for the in-coming administration, which will now have an Ilaje as Deputy Governor for the first time in the 44-year history of Ondo State.

    As we look forward to the inauguration of this second term of the administration, we call for a genuine and urgent focus on Ilaje for sustainable development in neglected infrastructures and other key areas such as health, education, economy, electricity etc. in fulfilment of the election promises and in alignment with the aspiration of our people. With the longest coastline in Nigeria, Ilaje Local Government offers incredible opportunity for coastal economy and is poised to be the mainstay of Ondo State economy as well as a strategic boost to the larger Nigerian economy.

    IDSG is a citizen-led initiative to engineer coordinated sustainable development of Ilaje land through participatory partnership, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. We offer sustainable solutions to strategic governance problems. Though neither apolitical nor irreligious, IDSG is an inclusive organization with no exclusive political or religious affiliation. The organization is made up of the most accomplished Ilaje sons and daughters in Nigeria and in different countries around the world; and with strong roots in Ilaje communities. We parade some of the finest minds in Ilaje land.

    Leading up to the October 10 , 2020 governorship election, IDSG convened the first of its kind Ilaje Global Townhall in Igbokoda, where traditional and religious leaders, women and youths across all the kingdoms of Ilaje land spoke with one voice in forging support for the candidature of Governor Akeredolu and Deputy Governor-elect Aiyedatiwa. IDSG and Ilaje people are positioned to support this administration in its efforts to develop Ondo State with a strategic focus on Ilaje land.

    Rev. Sola Adebawo

    Executive Administrator

  • JUST IN: Akeredolu, ‘new’ deputy receive Certificates of Return [Photo]

    JUST IN: Akeredolu, ‘new’ deputy receive Certificates of Return [Photo]

    The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, on Tuesday issued Certificate of Return to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu for winning the governorship election held in Ondo State on Saturday.

    Also issued with Certificate of Return is the Deputy Governor-elect, Lucky Ayedatiwa.

    Ondo Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Rufus Akeju issued the duo Certificates of Return at the INEC’s office in Akure, Ondo on Tuesday.

    Speaking after receiving the certificate of return, Akeredolu thanked INEC for conducting a credible poll which he won.

    He dedicated his victory at the poll to God.

    INEC had on Sunday declared Governor Akeredolu winner of the governorship election held in Ondo State on Saturday.

    INEC’s Returning Officer, Prof. Idowu Abel Olayinka, Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, declared Akeredolu winner of the poll, having polled majority of the votes.

    Akeredolu polled 292,830 votes to defeat Eyitayo Jegede of the PDP, who scored 195,791 votes, while Agboola Ajayi of ZLP, got 69,127 votes.